Mayor Kasim Reed announced that the City of Atlanta’s PATH Parkway was named number one on the “Best New Bikeways of 2017” list by PeopleforBikes. The list is compiled based on conversations with local and national infrastructure experts around the country with particular emphasis on projects that link networks of low-stress bikeways. Peopleforbikes defines "low-stress bikeways" as physically protected bike lanes, off-street paths and neighborhood bikeways.

“Atlanta is honored to have PATH Parkway recognized as the best new bikeway of 2017,” said Mayor Reed. “Cycling has become an essential part of Atlanta’s transportation network and we are committed to creating high-quality bicycle infrastructure for our residents and visitors to enjoy. PATH Parkway is a perfect example of that commitment and this recognition is a testament to a lot of hard work by a lot of people. We couldn’t be more pleased.”

Created in partnership with the PATH Foundation, Turner, The Coca-Cola Company and Georgia Institute of Technology, PATH Parkway is 1.5 miles of walking and biking infrastructure separated from vehicles. PATH Parkway connects West Midtown to Georgia Tech, The Coca-Cola Company Atlanta Office Complex and Downtown. The new facility features safe, separated bicycle infrastructure linking the John Portman protected bike lanes, the Stone Mountain Trail, the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside trail and other essential bicycle infrastructure within the City.

"Good bikeways are designed so all sorts of people will find them comfortable, and the PATH Parkway excels on that count," said Kyle Wagenschutz, Director of Local Innovation at PeopleForBikes. "But what put it atop our list is that it's also a convenient route where lots of people want to go. That's the combination, comfort and convenience, that'll pay off for Atlanta in health, happiness and congestion-proof mobility."

In 2012, Mayor Reed committed to the goal of making bicycling an integral part of daily life for Atlanta residents, workers and visitors by the year 2016. This goal included creating 120 miles of bicycle lanes and trails. Today, the City of Atlanta has 114 miles of completed bicycle infrastructure with an additional eight miles under construction.